July 13, 2007 :: The Heritage Foundation :: Analysis
Sally McNamara of the Heritage Foundation recently criticized an amendment by Senator Christopher Dodd to cut $225 million from building a missile defense system in Poland and the Czech Republic. The amendment ignores the pressing strategic need for the system, McNamara suggests, as well as our broader interests in European security and the U.S.'s relationship with Poland and the Czech Republic.
The emerging threat of a ballistic missile attack from a rouge state or terrorist organization is a danger to Europe and the U.S. alike. North Korea's Taepo-Dong 2 missiles and Iran's Shahab 3 ballistic missiles in particular, could threaten the security of Europe. Accordingly, "ten long-range, ground-based missile defense interceptors in Poland and a mid-course radar in the Czech Republic will strengthen transatlantic security and counter the evolving... ballistic missile threat. The Dodd amendment, however, will delay the proposed construction date of 2008 and the operational target date of 2012."
In addition to the military significance of the system, the placement of the interceptors and radar in Poland and the Czech Republic respectively would be a symbol of both transatlantic solidarity and a special relationship between those countries and the U.S.
For Warsaw and Prague, this would mark a milestone in their integration into the transatlantic security community. They would be providing a significant contribution to NATO and making a powerful statement in support of the alliance's principle of mutual defense. Hosting missile defense facilities would also offer Poland and the Czech Republic a special defense relationship with the United States. The project entails genuine cooperation between Washington and new, solid allies who have expressed an interest in building more enduring alliances with the United States.
The success of the Dodd amendment however would not only weaken Polish and Czech confidence in the U.S.'s commitment to their security, but would embolden Russia to meddle in European affairs. McNamara concludes, "Congress must display resolve and leadership by providing adequate funding to take this step toward solidifying the transatlantic security alliance." (Article)
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